Chapter 39, Old and New Acquaintance Summary

Lucy watches the three figures for awhile. She has heard rumors about M. Paul's departure, and she knows of their involvement. Before her marriage, Madame Walravens was given a dowry of an estate in the West Indies. It was held over during her family's troubles, but it is now ready to be useful again, and she wants her money back. Madame Beck is interested in the estate because Madame Walravens has no family, and Madame Beck is courting to become her heir. Pire Silas is also interested in the estate because it could be an opportunity to expand the influence of the Catholic Church. The three of them need a devoted man to help them rebuild the estate. M. Paul will go and then when he returns, if he returns, he can live his own...